Place and date: Quang
Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, 12 October 1967

Entered service at:
San Francisco, California

Born: 10 August 1947,
Rochester, New York

Citation:

For conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond
the call of duty while serving as a combat photographer attached
to Company C. During Operation MEDINA, a major reconnaissance in
force southwest of Quang Tri. Company C made heavy combat contact
with a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force estimated
at from 2 to 3 companies. The focal point of the intense fighting
was a helicopter landing zone which was also serving as the
Command Post of Company C. In the course of a strong hostile
attack, an enemy grenade landed in the immediate area occupied by
Cpl. Perkins and 3 other marines. Realizing the inherent danger,
he shouted the warning, "Incoming Grenade" to his fellow marines,
and in a valiant act of heroism, hurled himself upon the grenade
absorbing the impact of the explosion with his body, thereby
saving the lives of his comrades at the cost of his life. Through
his exceptional courage and inspiring valor in the face of certain
death, Cpl. Perkins reflected great credit upon himself and the
Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

William Perkins Jr. is the Marine on the left, holding the light meter. Photo taken March, 1967 at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. Thanks to Bill Keller for the photo.